Photo Copyrights of Churches and Cathedrals

[digitalia]

I have been in the media and visual arts business most of my life. I am aware that in most cases, public places can be photographed and the resulting photos used in any way desired, including commercially.

I am currently considering the photographic documentation of historic cathedrals and churches (MOST but not all are actual historic landmarks) and I am wondering what the copyrights are for the resulting images, more specifically the interiors of such locations. I am also interested if the current administration has the right to refuse my entry or use of said photos, given that most are listed as historic landmarks and are more than 100 years old.

I would appreciate any and all feedback and thoughts on the subject. I do indeed intend to ASK for permission, mainly to solicit the churches involvement and blessing, but I am still interested in what my legal RIGHTS are.

Thanks a bunch for your insight.

[jk]

I do indeed intend to ASK for permission, mainly to solicit the churches involvement and blessing,

well, you might want to ask their permission because entering private property without permission is trespassing in every state of the country. Being on a historical registry does not remove the rights of the owners of the property. You have no more right to enter and photograph a church than you do a private home.

A church is private property.

[digitalia]

well, you might want to ask their permission because entering private property without permission is trespassing in every state of the country. Being on a historical registry does not remove the rights of the owners of the property. You have no more right to enter and photograph a church than you do a private home.

A church is private property.

I was under the impression that historic landmarks were somehow open to public viewing / photographing. Was I misled in this regard ?

Thanks for the reply

[jk]

I was under the impression that historic landmarks were somehow open to public viewing / photographing. Was I misled in this regard ?

Thanks for the reply

apparently you were. Being on a historic registry does not strip the owner of their rights.



about half of all the landmarks on the Nat'l Historic Landmarks are privately owned. Here is an example of one:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_H...y_of_Wisconsin

Do you really believe that you have a right to enter that building and photograph at will? It is a currently used building by the University.

here is another one:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Bu...Vassar_College)

I betting if you wonder around that building taking pictures without permission, you will either be escorted from the premises or maybe even arrested.

Here is one that is apparently currently used as a funeral home:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matthew_S._Quay_House

I'm thinking you won't be too welcome there with a camera.

[digitalia]

Thanks for the info.